Have you given up on your sailing dreams because you have trouble getting on a boat, you struggle time-wise to get out sailing, or your sailing goal seems too hard to reach? Or are you starting to think sailing is sitting on the rail being shouted at?
I teach all levels of sailing to help you piece together the pieces of the sailing jigsaw puzzle, gain confidence, contribute to a crew and have fun doing it.
I will help you master all the challenges of sailing whether you aim to be a cruising sailor or a high performance racer one step at a time. I aim to create a consistently safe and supportive environment you can learn in a respectful and empowering environment. Together we will:
Understand the cause and effect of roles in the boat.
Gain a big picture understanding of where you fit in the process.
Learn to anticipate problems and use your own judgement
Perform in pressure situations.
Contribute to the organisation of boat or crew
Understand what is needed to further your sailing goals
Overcoming Barriers: From Learn to Sail to Competent Crew
Starting from ground zero with a learn-to-sail course is very accessible, but progressing beyond that can be challenging, and commitment to your development is crucial. Auckland, with its advanced skill level, is a demanding training ground for those transitioning from beginner to competent crew. My goal is to get you to become an all-around yachtie, confident and capable of contributing significantly to any crew.
Learning from the Best: Auckland’s Influence Even coming to the Auckland sailing scene with knowledge and confidence, I quickly realised how much more there is learn from the many experts here.The steep learning curve can be daunting, but the support and mentorship from myself and other experts in their field will help you reach your goal.
Learning in a Safe Space
Sailing is not about sitting on a rail and getting yelled at! The more knowledge you have, the more interesting your sailing journey will become, and the further you will go.
ABOUT ME
Hi, I'm Melinda, and my mission is to empower people of all ages and abilities to find fulfilment in sailing.
My international and Olympic sailing experiences and my thirst for knowledge and growth have shaped me into a knowledgeable and adaptable person. I have trained under many good coaches myself, such as Victor Kovalenko, aka 'the Medal Maker', as a young 470 sailor. I learned how to consistently start well, to come away from busy roundings well and the discipline required to be a world class sailor. I skippered a 470 at the Sydney Olympics.
My own sailing journey has involved managing anxiety, reframing pressure, dealing with injuries, and the media. In my calm, supportive, and non-judgmental manner, I inspire others to open up and be vulnerable with me.
Through coaching sailing I have been able to reflect on my personal experiences to assist others navigate these challenges.
I’m particularly passionate about mentoring and empowering women and girls. I believe in enabling girls to voice their opinions and to grow in confidence as they learn how to fully participate in a team and as an individual performer.
‘I just wanted to say a big thank you for all your help and encouragement over the past year. I absolutely loved the experience you enabled me to enjoy with sailing’. Nigel
‘I just wanted to say a massive thank you for everything you taught Quinn, he was really getting a good understanding of sailing and racing. Your encouragement and patience were always appreciated.’ Michelle
‘Your patience, your calmness and ability has given us confidence to sail safely’. Jonas
‘I’ve appreciated your leadership and coaching each week over the last couple of years, and also the calm manner in which you came to my rescue on several occasions! Gavin
‘You've been so consistent and such a great coach. I have loved the way you have supported Kori with his independent sailing... Thank you for every time you rescued him, adjusted his sails and coached him to be braver and more aware.’ Anna